Over 30 years ago, while in the Marine Corps, I was stationed in Beaufort, SC. Having spent four years there, I know that area like the back of my hand. Or so I thought!
When I visited Beaufort with my family this spring, I was surprised to find it looked totally unfamiliar to me.
Places where I’d once spent a great deal of time were completely wiped from the map; replaced with drive-thrus of regional restaurant chains. Some had been left to rot in the humid Carolina heat. New thoroughfares were built and downtown seemed like a different world than the one I remember.
It had all happened slowly over the decades and, yet, to me, it had happened all at once. I was shocked that I no longer recognized this town I had known so well.
It turns out, Beaufort County is one of the fastest growing in South Carolina. Between 2010 and 2020, the population increased by more than 20%.
Apparently, they’re about to get a fancy new shopping center. The Lowcountry town is really growing up!
While I looked back over the changes with a little sadness, I’m happy to see this place economically develop. The warm, salt-of-the-earth people were just the same, and I’m glad to see them prosper.
Now that I’m home and reflecting on my recent visit, I can’t help but draw a parallel to retirement planning. It’s just what I do!
Here’s my thinking: In the same way that Beaufort has transformed over the last 30 years, our retirement circumstances change too. They grow, they develop. Retirement planning is made up of incremental changes that accumulate to make a world of difference.
With time, things change. With time, things grow! With the right team, we can embrace the progress and opportunities that come with change. Our shared goals and values always guide us.
Ultimately, the lesson I’m drawing from this experience is that while change is inevitable, it brings new possibilities. By being adaptable and embracing change, we can enjoy the beauty of the past and the joy of the future.
How does that sound? Let me know your thoughts: 952-460-3290.
